January 26, 2023 • Golden, Colorado
The governing board for Ascent Classical Academy Charter Schools unanimously approved and appointed a head of school for a campus opening in Grand Junction, Colorado, during its regular board meeting on Tuesday, January 24, 2023.
Mrs. Carissa Drake will serve as the inaugural headmaster for the Ascent Classical Academy of Grand Junction. She joins the Ascent team after 14 years working for a classical liberal arts academy in Arizona, including more than seven years as an administrator.
Mrs. Drake holds a master’s degree in comparative history from Brandeis University and is a strong advocate for expanding access to classical education through public charter schools.
“We are thrilled to welcome such a qualified educator to the Ascent Classical team,” said Derec Shuler, executive director of Ascent Classical Academies. “Mrs. Drake brings extensive classical leadership experience to the Grand Junction community, and we look forward to seeing our future students flourish under her guidance.”
Ascent Classical Academy of Grand Junction will open this fall, serving grades K-8 and adding additional grades in the coming years until reaching K-12 matriculation. The school is licensed to use Hillsdale College’s K-12 curriculum which emphasizes math, science, literature, and history, with attention to music, art, physical education, and foreign languages. Ascent’s program offers students a content-rich and rigorous academic program, preparing students to flourish in life.
To learn more about Ascent’s tuition-free classical education, find an upcoming information session, and apply online, visit grandjunction.ascentclassical.org.